In the Bible, the desert owl and screech owl are mentioned in various contexts, often symbolizing desolation and judgment. These birds are typically associated with wilderness and uninhabited places, reflecting their natural habitats and the spiritual symbolism attributed to them in the Scriptures.

Desert Owl

The desert owl is referenced in several passages, often in the context of desolation and ruin. In Isaiah 34:11 , the prophet describes the judgment upon Edom, stating, "The desert owl and screech owl will possess it; the great owl and the raven will dwell in it. The LORD will stretch out over Edom the measuring line of chaos and the plumb line of destruction." Here, the desert owl is depicted as a creature inhabiting a land laid waste by divine judgment, symbolizing the complete abandonment and desolation of the area.

Similarly, in Psalm 102:6 , the psalmist laments, "I am like a desert owl of the wilderness, like an owl among the ruins." This verse uses the imagery of the desert owl to express feelings of isolation and abandonment, drawing a parallel between the solitary nature of the owl and the psalmist's own sense of loneliness and despair.

Screech Owl

The screech owl is also mentioned in the context of desolation and judgment. In Isaiah 34:14 , the prophet continues his description of Edom's desolation: "The desert creatures will meet with hyenas, and one wild goat will call to another; there the screech owl will settle and find her place of repose." The screech owl, like the desert owl, is portrayed as a resident of desolate places, further emphasizing the theme of divine judgment and the resulting abandonment.

The screech owl's presence in these passages serves as a metaphor for the eerie silence and emptiness that follows God's judgment. The haunting call of the screech owl in the night is emblematic of the spiritual desolation that accompanies the physical ruin of a land.

Symbolism and Interpretation

In biblical symbolism, both the desert owl and screech owl are often associated with themes of judgment, desolation, and spiritual barrenness. Their presence in prophetic literature underscores the severity of God's judgment and the resulting desolation of the land. These birds, dwelling in ruins and uninhabited places, serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting spiritual emptiness.

From a conservative Christian perspective, the imagery of the desert owl and screech owl can also be seen as a call to repentance and a return to faithfulness. The desolation they represent serves as a warning of the spiritual consequences of sin and the importance of seeking restoration and renewal through a relationship with God.